The Concerned Kogi Central Senatorial District Equity Voice has strongly rejected ongoing attempts by former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, to position himself as the political leader of Kogi Central and secure the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial ticket, describing such moves as unacceptable, self-serving, and contrary to the principles of equity and democratic fairness.
In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Alh. Nuhu Obeito Esq., the group noted that after years of allegedly neglecting grassroots stakeholders, suppressing dissenting voices, and sidelining party loyalists, the former governor has suddenly embarked on reconciliation meetings and consultations in a desperate bid to rebuild political support ahead of future elections.
According to the group, many families across Ebiraland are yet to recover from the painful experiences of the previous administration, with several residents still recounting cases of intimidation, harassment, arbitrary arrests, and political persecution. The group stressed that the wounds inflicted on many communities cannot be erased through last-minute political consultations.
The organization further questioned the celebrated water rehabilitation projects executed during the Bello administration, arguing that despite billions reportedly invested, access to potable water remains a major challenge in several communities across Kogi Central. The reality on ground, it stated, sharply contrasts with the claims often presented to the public.
The group also maintained that the people of Ebiraland have not forgotten the political events surrounding the electoral contests involving Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, insisting that the lessons from those experiences remain fresh in the minds of many citizens.
Rejecting attempts to portray any individual as the sole political saviour of Kogi Central, the group emphasized that leadership is a collective responsibility and not the exclusive preserve of any political figure. It added that performance, accountability, and service to the people must remain the primary criteria for public office.
The statement further declared that frequent visits to influential APC leaders in Abuja, Lagos, and other political power centers cannot substitute for genuine grassroots acceptance. According to the group, political endorsements secured behind closed doors cannot override the wishes and aspirations of the people.
Expressing concern over the current political atmosphere in Kogi State, the group alleged that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo continues to operate under the overwhelming influence of his predecessor, a situation it said has hindered independent governance and slowed developmental progress across the state.
The group lamented the persistent lack of critical infrastructure, poor water supply, rising youth unemployment, and the absence of significant industrial investments capable of transforming the economic fortunes of Kogi Central. It argued that despite years of political dominance by a select few, the dividends of democracy remain largely elusive for ordinary citizens.
It also raised concerns over unresolved allegations of corruption and financial misconduct that continue to trail the former governor, insisting that accountability and transparency must take precedence over renewed political ambitions.
Furthermore, the organization condemned what it described as the excessive concentration of political appointments and opportunities within a narrow political circle, particularly in Okene Local Government Area, at the expense of broader inclusiveness and equitable representation across the entire Ebira nation.
Consequently, the Concerned Kogi Central Senatorial District Equity Voice called on the National Working Committee (NWC) of the APC to uphold internal democracy by ensuring that all aspirants comply strictly with the party’s constitutional requirements, screening procedures, and nomination processes. It insisted that any aspirant who fails to participate in the prescribed process should be disqualified without exception.
The group also appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to safeguard democratic values and prevent any form of political manipulation capable of undermining peace, unity, fairness, and stability within Kogi State and the APC.
The statement concluded by reaffirming the unwavering commitment of the people of Kogi Central to the principles of equity, justice, fairness, and inclusive representation, stressing that the future of the district must never be subjected to the ambitions of any single individual, regardless of political status or influence.
“Kogi Central belongs to all its people, not to any one political actor. The era of political monopoly must give way to an era of inclusiveness, accountability, and genuine democratic participation.”
